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Senate approves legislation to allow private repair for powered wheelchairs, sponsors say it will shorten wait times
Summary
The Senate passed a bill authorizing independent repairs of powered wheelchairs and related equipment, a measure supporters said will reduce long wait times for repairs and increase user independence; widespread floor support was recorded (vote: Ayes 59).
The New York State Senate passed legislation on June 11, 2025, to expand who may repair powered wheelchairs and some other durable medical equipment. Sponsors and supporters said the change will reduce repair turnaround times and allow more independent repair options for users.
Senator Rachel Fahey, the bill’s sponsor on the floor, told senators the measure responds to long repair delays that can leave wheelchair users housebound. Fahey recounted constituent cases and national survey data, saying a 2022 study showed "62 percent of powered wheelchair users wait four or more weeks for repairs, and 93 percent... needed at least one repair in the last year." She argued the bill would expand options by letting independent repair providers service equipment without voiding warranties and by clarifying legal protections.
Nut graf: Backers framed the bill as a public-access and disability-accessibility measure that addresses long repair wait times and limited provider networks. The Senate passed the bill by voice/recorded vote (floor report recorded “Ayes 59”), and sponsors urged quick enactment to shorten repair backlogs and increase users’ independence.
What passed: The chamber passed the bill after floor debate highlighting repair delays and personal testimonies. Proponents described the bill as enabling independent technicians and repair providers to work on powered wheelchairs while preserving users’ options and addressing warranty concerns.
Why it matters: Supporters said many powered wheelchair users depend on timely repairs to maintain mobility and independence; delays can produce health harms and social isolation. The bill’s supporters argued it will expand choices for users and reduce repair times by allowing a wider pool of qualified repair providers.
What’s next: If signed, the law will require agencies to implement regulations and notify suppliers and providers. The floor record shows broad, bipartisan support for the measure.
